Can’t Read? --- We can Help

Free Adult Tutoring

For more information, click on "For students" at the top of this page

Or contact your library – Baraboo Public Library, 230 Fourth Avenue 608-356-6166

Who we are and what we do?

The Baraboo Area Literacy Council (BALC) was established in 1986 to address literacy needs in Baraboo and the surrounding communities. The organization is volunteer and non-profit.

BALC provides tutors for adults who need help with basic literacy (reading and writing), or English as a second language (ESL). Tutors and students meet on a one-to-one basis, in a safe place, at their mutual convenience. The service is free and continuous. BALC tutors are trained volunteers who have agreed to a background check.
 
  The BALC has an extensive collection of texts and workbooks of all types and literacy levels appropriate to a student’s individual abilities. In addition to reading and writing there are learning materials in the areas of math, health, citizenship, GED, jobs, finance, and other skills necessary for daily life. All learning materials are available to BALC tutors and their students for check-out through the South Central Library System's LINKcat. Workbooks are available for purchase by the students when financially possible, or given to them if they are unable to cover the expense. Funding for the BALC comes from several sources, including state, federal and corporate donor programs, as well as private donations.

The BALC welcomes community support and is always looking for new members. The BALC - it's board, it's tutor coordinator and all tutors - is made up entirely of volunteers. If interested in joining the BALC, either as a tutor or as a board member, please leave your name and contact information, including email if available, at the circulation desk of the Baraboo Public Library or email boolit@barabooliteracy.org. 

If you don’t have time or interest in participating actively in the BALC program, monetary contributions are welcome and needed. Since we are a non-profit group your donation would be tax-deductible. Checks may be made out to BALC and left at the desk of the Baraboo Public Library. If you wanted to contribute to a particular part of BALC (acquisition of books for the general collection; books for students who can’t afford them; tutor training; etc) you could email us for more details: (boolit@barabooliteracy.org)

If you know anyone who is in need of assistance with basic literacy or ESL services, please direct them to the BALC, again via the circulation desk at the Baraboo Public Library, or by emailing boolit@barabooliteracy.org.


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